Scorpion is a Colombian soldier serving in the 3rd International Legion for the Defense of Ukraine. He’s currently been engaged in intense combat operations in the Kharkiv region — one of the most critical frontlines in Ukraine’s ongoing resistance against russian aggression.
Scorpion is a legend within the 3rd Legion. As one of the founding members of the battalion, he played a key role in shaping its identity and spirit. Since the very beginning of russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, the legionnaire has stood unwaveringly beside his brothers-in-arms.
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Despite suffering multiple injuries and enduring the relentless demands of combat, Scorpion continues to return to the battlefield time and again. For him, each scar is not a mark of pain — but a reminder of purpose and a symbol of resilience:
“I’ve been wounded in combat four times, but I’m still here because I believe what russia is doing to this country and its people are deeply unjust. I want to help — to give everything I have: my training, experience, and strength — to support my brothers-in-arms and stay until the very end. My goal is to see Ukraine free and truly independent.”
The Colombian sustained his most recent wound during a fierce battle against a group of twelve russian soldiers who attacked with overwhelming force, using both drones and artillery to press their advantage. The engagement was chaotic and relentless — a brutal illustration of how quickly the battlefield can shift:
“Our last mission was in Kupiansk. I, the group commander, and three more soldiers — each one experienced and incredibly brave. We held our position for as long as we could, but we were heavily outnumbered. The support we received helped, but it wasn’t enough. In the end, we had no choice but to retreat.
During the withdrawal, two of my teammates and I were wounded. Despite our injuries, we stayed together and supported one another. Side by side, we managed to escape drone-dropped grenades and artillery fire.
It took everything we had — all our courage and experience. But thank God, we made it out alive. We’re still standing — and as soon as we recover, we’ll return to the fight.”
Today, the position from which Scorpion and his group were once forced to withdraw has already been retaken by our soldiers. The enemy has been driven out. This is yet another reminder of the tension and intensity of the war along these lines. Here, step by step, the fight for every meter of Ukrainian land continues.
At the time of the interview, the wounded legionnaire was receiving treatment in a Ukrainian hospital. Despite overwhelming workloads, limited resources, and the constant threat of missile strikes, the doctors and nurses remain calm, focused, and unwavering in their commitment. In a war where survival often depends on minutes, the dedication and skill of Ukrainian medics make all the difference:
"I’ve been treated with great care. I have nothing but respect for the doctors, nurses, and medical institutions here. From the moment I was wounded in the field, they’ve looked after me every step of the way until I recovered. Thank God Ukraine has such dedicated medical professionals and strong hospital services."
Scorpion has fought in wars across multiple continents, serving in various units alongside soldiers of diverse backgrounds. With firsthand experience of combat in places like Colombia and Afghanistan, the legionnaire is now able to reflect on the stark differences between those conflicts and the russo-Ukrainian war:
“Of all the wars I’ve fought in, the most challenging aspect here is the artillery. The sheer volume is overwhelming. In Afghanistan, we hardly encountered anything like that — it was more of a tunnel war and guerrilla-style combat.
And then there’s the technology. Drones are everywhere. They don’t just send one; sometimes it’s five, seven, even ten coming at you at once. It’s intense and makes every moment on the front lines completely unpredictable.
But thank God for my Delta group — we’re a solid team. No matter what comes our way, we always have each other’s backs.”
Since the start of the full-scale war, Scorpion has taken part in countless missions, each carrying its own risks and challenges. Yet, amid all the battles and operations, there are a few that have left an indelible mark on his memory — missions so intense and pivotal that they etched themselves deeper than all others:
“Two missions stand out in my memory — one in Bakhmut and another in Klishchiivka — where I genuinely believed I might not make it out alive. We faced relentless heavy artillery and waves of attacking drones, each moment more intense than the last. Despite the overwhelming odds, we held our ground, won the battle, and survived.”
As part of his combat history, Scorpion contributed to the liberation of the Kharkiv region during the Ukrainian counteroffensive in 2022. Over just two weeks, he and his brothers-in-arms pushed back enemy forces, reclaiming more than half of the territory.
This swift operation marked a turning point in the war, showcasing the iron determination of the Ukrainian forces. For the Colombian fighter, the experience was both grueling and deeply rewarding:
“At the time, it was tough — the russians were nearly inside Kharkiv. But when we launched the counteroffensive, we pushed them back three to four hours away, near the regional border by Kupiansk. Seeing that land liberated was an honor — a moment of pride we’ll never forget.”
During the intense fighting and subsequent advances, Scorpion also witnessed firsthand the devastating aftermath left by the retreating enemy. He saw villages and towns scarred by destruction — homes reduced to rubble, infrastructure ruined, and lives forever altered.
Yet, despite the destruction, he also saw the unshakable will of the Ukrainian people to rebuild and reclaim their land. His experience on the ground deepened his commitment to the fight and his hope for a free and peaceful Ukraine:
“I’ve been to several regions where the russians had occupied and then retreated. I’ve made friends in many of these places — Ukrainian friends who warmly welcomed me. They’ve treated me kindly, and I’ve been fortunate to build meaningful and lasting friendships with them.
As for what the russians leave behind, it’s nothing but destruction. That’s all they know how to do. Wherever they pass, they leave ruins in their wake. Honestly, it’s beyond words. There’s no need to say more because the devastation speaks for itself.”
Wherever he goes, Scorpion brings extensive expertise in operating a wide array of weapons and military equipment — experience gained not only on the battlefields of Ukraine but also in conflicts across other countries. His knowledge spans everything from standard-issue rifles and machine guns to advanced anti-tank systems and rocket launchers:
“In Colombia, I operated a range of weapons, including the AK-47, Galil, M60, MP5, MP4, pistols, and standard machine guns. While in Afghanistan, I worked with the RPG, Galil ZAR, and MP4. Here in Ukraine, I’ve used the MP4, Groza, and Bren 60, among others. I’m also trained in anti-tank systems such as the AT-4, AT-3, and ENLOC. In addition to my weapons experience, I can drive virtually any type of vehicle — even trucks.”
In recognition of his bravery and sacrifice, the Colombian legionnaire has been decorated with numerous medals. Notably, he received the medal “For the Sacrifice of Blood in the Battles for Ukraine’s Freedom,” honoring those wounded while defending the nation. He was also bestowed with both the “Steel Cross” and “Golden Cross” medals, awarded for acts of valor on the battlefield and significant contributions to Ukraine’s defense.
But it’s not just recognition that drives him forward. For Scorpion, the war has become deeply personal. His partner, a Ukrainian woman, has become a profound source of strength and motivation. He’s no longer fighting solely for a cause — he’s fighting for someone he loves, someone he is determined to protect:
"I don’t have anyone back in Colombia — I left without any ties. But here in Ukraine, I’ve found someone. It’s not always easy, especially with the language barrier, but we’re learning, growing together. She understands the risks I face. Out here, it’s a 50/50 chance — either the hospital or the cemetery. It’s hard, no doubt. But she gets it. We’re fighting for her country, and that makes every sacrifice worth it."
Despite the constant presence of war, Scorpion still holds on to his vision for the future. In rare quiet moments, he allows himself to imagine a life beyond the front lines — a life after the victory:
“I want to obtain Ukrainian citizenship and make this country my home. I love farming, so I hope to cultivate the land and start my own business. I also dream of starting a family here. Ukraine is an incredible place, full of resilience and spirit. After the war, I would be proud to help rebuild this nation and contribute to its future.”
For the legend of the 3rd Legion, victory is not just a distant dream — it’s a driving force that keeps him fighting for a land that has come to hold a special place in his heart. Ukraine has left a lasting mark on the Colombian, touching him in countless ways:
“The culture here is truly exceptional. Honestly, it’s one of the most beautiful cultures I’ve encountered. The food is excellent — fresh, wholesome, and very healthy. I believe Ukrainians have a strong tradition of eating well and caring for themselves.
Despite the ongoing war, this country feels very safe, especially compared to places I’ve known in Latin America, where insecurity is much more common. Beyond that, the warmth and kindness of the people stand out. Ukrainians are incredibly generous and wonderful, which makes living here all the more meaningful.”
Scorpion’s wounds have earned him the respect and recognition to be considered “one of our own” by Ukrainians. But for him, true belonging goes beyond the battlefield. To fully integrate into the community he now calls home, he is committed to learning Ukrainian — not just as a practical necessity but as a way to forge deeper connections with the people around him:
“The language barrier is real, but I’m making progress. I’ve learned different words for animals and important expressions — especially greetings. For example, I know that silence is ‘tykho’, goat is ‘koza’, cow is ‘korova’, and horse is ‘kin’. When we say ‘reload,’ the word is ‘perezariadyty’. ‘Nebezpeka’ means ‘danger.’ When russians are in the area, we call them ‘Muscovites.’ We can even distinguish numbers like ‘odyn’ (one), ‘try’ (three), and ‘chotyry’ (four) to identify enemy forces.There are many, many words — I don’t remember them all right now, but I can understand quite a bit when people speak.”
For Scorpion, war is not just about defeating the enemy; it’s about preserving the strength and spirit of those who fight alongside you — so you can live to fight another day. If you’re willing to fight for Ukraine, you must understand that this is not a war for glory or adventure — it’s a brutal, life-altering experience that demands courage, resilience, and a deep commitment:
“You have to stay focused and alert at all times. First, protect your own life, then watch out for your teammates. Trust your team—they’ve got your back. Keep your family in mind and believe deeply in your mission. Remember, you’re doing something meaningful here. That’s what gives you strength. We might die, or we might survive. And after the war… we’ll see.”Unlike other wars he’s fought in — where political motives were often murky and lines of loyalty blurred — here the stakes are crystal clear: one nation is defending its very right to exist while another is trying to erase it.
For Scorpion, that clarity is powerful. He knows precisely why he’s here. It’s not for pay or glory — it’s to stand with a country that has shown extraordinary courage in the face of brutal aggression. A country he now proudly calls home:
“We came here to help liberate this country, and I have deep respect for the Ukrainian soldiers. They are true warriors — fighting with heart, with everything they have, for their homeland. That kind of spirit gives you strength. It makes you proud to stand and fight beside them.”
Despite the hardship, Scorpion keeps going — driven by a deep sense of duty and loyalty. Wounds have not broken his spirit. Each time he recovers, he chooses to return to the front lines and rejoin his brothers-in-arms, knowing that his presence could mean the difference between life and death. For him, standing alongside his fellow soldiers is not just a responsibility — it’s a matter of honor:
“I am grateful to Sviatopolk, an officer of the 3rd Legion, for creating this group. All the guys went through his selection and interviews before becoming part of our team. We have some of the world’s best soldiers — people who truly love the uniform and the cause – and we will give everything we have for Ukraine’s freedom. I encourage anyone willing to join. Ukraine needs your help.”
You can learn more about the International Legions for the Defense of Ukraine and join them on the official website: https://ildu.mil.gov.ua/en
Text: Dmytro Tolkachov
Photo: Volodymyr Patola
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